Outreach & Extension

Extension, outreach, engagement — putting knowledge and research to work for local, national and global communities has always been a primary purpose of the college.

Cornell University created its first agricultural extension program in 1894, which is distinguished as the nation’s longest continuously operating extension program. Our faculty and staff are important innovators in agricultural, environmental and social extension work.

A commitment to extend knowledge beyond the university is an integral part of the CALS culture and mission. Cornell Cooperative Extension (CCE)  is a formal organization with offices on the Cornell campus and across New York state and New York City. Regional agricultural teams effectively bridge researchers on our campus with educators in our communities.

In addition to the Cornell researchers who regularly work with county CCE staffers, we have more than 200 CALS faculty and staff who also conduct extension education programs with targeted audiences in a variety of other ways, including through community outreach, online courses, short courses, field days, public school events and more.

The breadth and depth of our extension/outreach activities demonstrate a deep CALS commitment to a broad educational mission that links campus and public life. Whether on campus or off, we translate Cornell University’s world-class research into real-world practice that helps New York state residents, businesses and communities to thrive.